Watkins absent as Villa crushed at Brighton, Emery admits future is "an issue"

Ollie Watkins was left out of Aston Villa's squad for their 4-0 defeat at Brighton. Manager Unai Emery admitted the striker's future is "an issue." Watkins, 30, has told Villa he wants to join Al Hilal, who have had four bids rejected — offers reported around £38.5m and later €45m. Villa are expected to pursue Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson if Watkins leaves.